Postdoctoral Research Assistant : London, United Kingdom

A Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position is available in the Department of Chemistry in the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences (SBCS) at Queen Mary, University of London (QMUL) with Dr Chris Jones, working on developing novel methods for the catalytic generation and harnessing of reactive intermediates.

This appointment is funded by the EPSRC and forms part of an Early Career Fellowship awarded to Dr Jones. The PDRA will work towards the primary goal of catalytic reactive intermediate formation, starting from simple and abundant chemicals. They will also investigate new ways to exploit reactive intermediates for the development of organic transformations, including building upon preliminary findings in the group centred around metal-free C(sp3)-H bond functionalisation.

As a member of the prestigious Russell group, QMUL is one of UK’s leading research-focused higher education institutions, where multidisciplinary research is carried out at the highest level. The Jones group is based in the Joseph Priestley Building that is fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for carrying out outstanding research, including high field NMR, EPR, AFM, IR, UV-Vis and mass spectrometers, in addition to LCMS, GCMS and HPLC equipment.

The successful candidate will have a PhD or equivalent in organic or organometallic chemistry. They will have an established track record of success in high-quality original research and the ability to work independently. During the project the PDRA will have the opportunity to develop his/her supervision, writing, communication and organisational skills. Duties may also include assisting in the training and supervision of PhD and final year project students.

This is a full time post, available from 2 November 2015 (flexible start date) for one year, with the possibility of extending for two additional years, subject to satisfactory performance review. The starting salary will be in the range of £33,476 – £35,319 per annum, inclusive of London Allowance. Salary will be according to qualifications, skills and experience. Benefits include 30 days annual leave, defined benefit pension scheme and interest-free season ticket loan.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.